Speckled Epaulette Shark

My species/animal is a fish — Speckled Epaulette Shark (Hemiscyllium trispeculare) — a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its beautiful speckled pattern, slender elongated body, unique ability to “walk” on its pectoral fins, and moderate size.

Males typically develop claspers near the pelvic fins and may have slightly thicker bodies during breeding season, while females/juveniles are usually smaller with softer, less defined patterns. They reach about 24 to 30 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 180 gallons.

Provide a fine sandbed for resting, plenty of live rock and caves for hiding spots, and ample open swimming space. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since many shark species are prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, squid, and specialized pellets. With proper care, this fish makes a standout and fascinating addition to a home marine aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.